In an era in which many career choices are determined by what brings in the most "green," Ryan Carden and Jessica Hammonds have chosen to work the land. As proprietors of Organicism Farms, the Knoxville residents rake in plenty of green - but most resemble weeds. From their hard work comes a harvest of colorful fruits and vegetables that bring in enough cash to make them self-sufficient.
In February 2009 Organicism Farms was born, and the couple went to work plotting their future. "Last year was our first year working for ourselves. We got out with a tiller and started planting," she said. "We learned a lot last year, and we're still learning a lot this year," Carden added. They have had numerous comments from customers regarding the name of their business, which reflects the farming method that they adhere to, but the name was actually created while Hammonds was still in college.
They've also gotten a positive response from their family. "My family was surprisingly thrilled. My grandma said hallelujah," Hammonds said. "I think it's kind of a generation-connecting profession," Carden added.
